Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

If you're craving a flavorful, savory dish with a bit of spice, Black Pepper Chicken is the perfect recipe to try. This dish features tender pieces of chicken cooked in a bold, peppery sauce with a balance of savory, slightly sweet, and umami flavors. A favorite in Chinese cuisine, Black Pepper Chicken can easily be made at home with just a few ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting guests, this dish is sure to impress. Keep reading for the step-by-step recipe, tips, and tricks to make the best black pepper chicken every time!

this Recipe

What Is Black Pepper Chicken?

Black Pepper Chicken is a popular stir-fry dish that is known for its bold, peppery flavor. The chicken is marinated and cooked with onions, bell peppers, and an aromatic sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and freshly cracked black pepper. It’s a dish that strikes the perfect balance between savory and spicy, with the black pepper adding a warm heat that complements the sweetness of the vegetables and the richness of the sauce. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles, making it a complete meal.

Ingredients List for Black Pepper Chicken

To prepare Black Pepper Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for marinating the chicken)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to coat the chicken for crispiness)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for stir-frying)

For the stir-fry:

• 1 large onion (sliced)
• 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
• 2-3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)

For the sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (for a richer color and flavor)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the saltiness)
• ¼ cup chicken broth or water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce)

Ingredients List for Marinade (Optional)

Marinating the chicken adds depth of flavor and keeps it juicy. You can marinate the chicken for about 15-20 minutes if you have time. Here's what you'll need:

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (or regular white vinegar)
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon white pepper (optional, for added depth)

Substitutions and Variations

There are plenty of ways to adapt the Black Pepper Chicken recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:

1. Chicken Substitutes: If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You can also use pork, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.
2. Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, carrots, or snow peas. These vegetables will absorb the delicious sauce and add a nice variety of textures.
3. Spicier Version: If you like more heat, add sliced chili peppers or chili paste (like Sambal Oelek) to the sauce. You can also increase the amount of black pepper for a stronger kick.
4. Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free (or skip it altogether and replace with more tamari).
5. Sweet Variation: Add a splash of hoisin sauce or honey to the sauce for a slightly sweeter profile, balancing the peppery flavor with a touch of sweetness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how you can make this delicious Black Pepper Chicken at home:

1. Marinate the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, cornstarch, and vinegar. Toss the chicken pieces in the marinade and set aside for 15-20 minutes while you prepare the vegetables and sauce.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, chicken broth (or water), and cornstarch. Set aside until ready to use.
3. Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and let it get hot.
4. Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
5. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and toss in the sliced onions, green bell peppers, and red bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened but still crisp.
6. Add Garlic and Black Pepper: Add the minced garlic and freshly cracked black pepper to the vegetables. Stir-fry for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Return the Chicken to the Pan: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are well coated in the sauce. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and coat everything evenly.
8. Finish and Serve: Once the sauce has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary (you can add more soy sauce or black pepper if you prefer). Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the black pepper chicken immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

How to Cook Black Pepper Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Use High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to cook the chicken and vegetables quickly while retaining their texture. Ensure your pan or wok is properly heated before adding ingredients.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Since chicken thighs are naturally juicier, they are less likely to dry out than chicken breasts. However, overcooking can still make them tough. Cook the chicken just until it’s browned and cooked through, then remove it from the pan before adding the vegetables.
3. Crack Fresh Pepper: The key to this dish is using freshly cracked black pepper, which has a stronger, more aromatic flavor than pre-ground pepper. You can adjust the amount of pepper to suit your spice tolerance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Cold Chicken: Always let the chicken come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps prevent the chicken from being tough.
2. Overcrowding the Pan: Stir-frying requires space. If your pan is overcrowded, the chicken and vegetables will steam instead of sear. Cook the chicken in batches if needed.
3. Not Using Fresh Pepper: Pre-ground pepper won’t provide the same punch as freshly cracked black pepper. Invest in a good pepper mill for the best results in this dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Black Pepper Chicken is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right side and garnishing it beautifully can elevate the dish. Here’s how to serve and present it:

• Serve with Steamed Rice: Jasmine rice or brown rice works well to balance the bold flavors of the dish. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite satisfying.
• Pair with Noodles: If you prefer, you can serve the black pepper chicken over stir-fried noodles or even rice noodles for a different texture.
• Add a Fresh Element: A light cucumber or cabbage salad with a simple vinaigrette can help balance out the richness of the dish.

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

• Family Style: Serve the chicken directly from the pan or transfer it to a large serving bowl and place it in the center of the table with bowls of rice, allowing everyone to serve themselves.
• Individual Plates: For a more formal presentation, plate the chicken over a bed of rice or noodles and garnish with freshly chopped scallions and a few extra cracks of black pepper for flair.

Presentation Ideas for Black Pepper Chicken

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top the dish with freshly chopped cilantro, scallions, or even sesame seeds for added color and flavor.
• Serve in a Wok or Cast-Iron Skillet: For a rustic presentation, serve the dish directly from a wok or cast-iron skillet. This keeps the dish warm while adding a nice visual appeal.

Black Pepper Chicken Recipe Tips

1. Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time, making it easier to cook the dish quickly when you're ready.
2. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may be slightly less juicy than thighs. Be careful not to overcook them.

Q: How long will the dish last in the fridge?
A: Black Pepper Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.

Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: The heat level comes from the black pepper. You can adjust the amount to your taste, or add chili peppers for extra spice.

Q: Can I freeze Black Pepper Chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

Black Pepper Chicken is a fantastic dish that combines bold flavors with tender chicken and crisp vegetables. Whether you're a fan of peppery heat or looking for a new stir-fry recipe to try, this dish will not disappoint. It's quick, easy to make, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Serve it with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Try this recipe today and enjoy the rich, savory taste of homemade Black Pepper Chicken!

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